This article expresses the views of its author(s), separate from those of this publication. Readers are encouraged to comment or submit a Letter to the Editor to share their opinions. To submit a Letter to the Editor, follow the instructions here.
Jill Scott is considered R&B’s powerhouse, with multiple classics including “Golden” and “A Long Walk.” So it’s safe to say that “To Whom This May Concern” was widely anticipated, even by casual fans like myself.
Her previous solo album, “Woman” (2015), included sonic elements familiar from her funk-inspired and soulful early work. My personal favorites from her earlier albums include “The Fact Is (I Need You)” (2004) and “Wanna Be Loved” (2007).
However, this recent release doesn’t fit that script. “To Whom This May Concern” marked a shift in sound. With fresh production and engineering, the album stands apart from the rest of her discography. Simply put, I was not expecting an album like this from Scott. Nevertheless, there are still honorable mentions throughout the record.
Track 4: “Offdaback”
“Offdaback” is a laidback track with sort of a “knowing” legato. In the song, Scott honors her ancestors and celebrates Black musical pioneers like Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Tina Turner, who have trailblazed the path that allowed her to have the platform that she has today. The song is a thank you to those who came before her.
Track 16: “Àṣẹ”
Growing up in a Nigerian household, “àṣẹ” was a word that I heard frequently. “Àṣẹ” is a natural, spiritual force that fuels things into happening. It loosely translates to “may it come to pass.” I often heard it used alongside “ese” and “àmi,” meaning “thank you” and “amen,” respectively.
I was surprised to hear Scott incorporated a piece of Yoruba culture into her song. I especially liked that after saying “àṣẹ,” she follows it with “I mean, amen.” It solidifies the faith by sealing it with “amen,” much like when I heard “àṣẹ àmi” as a child. The song felt familiar to me, and I appreciated that.
Track 11: “The Math”
When I first heard this song, I was immediately drawn to it because it reminded me of another song I enjoy, “Bout It” by Liv.e. The familiar melody and rhythm immediately pulled me in.
Beyond that, I loved the lyrics. Lines that stood out to me include, “Could it be we worship things that ultimately can’t last?” and “Could it be that we can’t clearly see what to subtract and add?” She follows both with “you do the math.” I don’t have a concrete reading of these lyrics, but they resonated with me as they are without further explanation.
“The Math” is definitely my favorite song on the album, despite my not being keen on the majority of the record.
Even though this album wasn’t my favorite, I still appreciate and recognize Scott’s artistry and importance as an R&B and soul powerhouse. I will always anticipate her music when she announces a new release. I am excited to see what she does next.
___
For more information or news tips, or if you see an error in this story or have any compliments or concerns, contact [email protected].
